Adaptations

Simple adaptations include:

• Grab rails;
• Additional hand rail for stairs;
• Accessible lever taps to wash basins, kitchen sinks and baths;
• Fitting key safes;
• Accessible door entry handset;
• Shower seat;
• Automatic exterior light;
• Flashing strobe for alerts;
• Window opener;
• Accessible lever flush toilet (replacement of toilet flush handle);
• Accessible sockets and switches (repositioning existing socket and lights).

Complex adaptations include:

• Shower adaptation;
• Thermostat controlled shower over the bath;
• Ramped access to your doorway;
• Stair lifts and through-floor lifts;
• Internal alterations to walls and doorways (if feasible).

You’ll need to speak to an occupational therapist from social services. They’ll visit you in your home to assess your needs.

To arrange an assessment please contact Social Care Direct on 0345 603 7630. We’ll need a written recommendation from them before we can make complex adaptations to your home.

We’ll need to consider if these recommendations are both reasonable and practical, due to planning restrictions or the design of the property. If it’s not possible, we might suggest moving to a new home that suits your needs.

 
How quickly we can start and finish the work depends on:

• How long it takes to get approval for funding;
• The availability of specialist equipment - stair lifts for example;
• The amount of work involved.

We’ll tell you how long it is likely to take to complete the work before we start and keep you updated regularly.

Your local authority will assess your application and whether you are eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG). Your income and savings will be considered. If you have savings or a regular income, or can afford to pay towards adaptations, you may have to contribute to the cost of the work.

If you receive Universal Credit or Guarantee Pension Credit it's likely you won't have to contribute towards the cost.